Police Warn of Fake Bomb Threats and Extortion Scam in Edo

 

The Edo State Police Command has warned businesses and residents about a growing wave of fake bomb threats being made by fraudsters attempting to extort money.

The alert was issued on Monday in a public advisory released by the Command’s Assistant Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem.

According to Ikoedem, the police are investigating a disturbing trend where anonymous callers threaten individuals, business owners, and corporate organisations, claiming that explosive devices have been planted on their premises.

“The callers then demand money, threatening to detonate the alleged explosives if their demands are not met,” she said. “These are clear cases of extortion through fear and intimidation, and the Command is actively investigating the incidents.”

The Command urged the public to remain calm and not yield to the fraudsters’ demands.

“Do not panic or make any payments to such callers. The Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit is fully equipped to detect and neutralise any explosive devices,” Ikoedem stated.

She advised residents to report any suspicious calls or messages immediately to the nearest police station or the Command’s Control Room via 08077773721 or 08037646272.

“Please avoid spreading unverified information or causing unnecessary panic. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious persons, objects, or movements,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has ordered the deployment of specialised units—including the EOD Team, Intelligence Bureau, and Tactical Squads—to respond swiftly to reported threats and ensure public safety.

The Command also confirmed it is working with telecommunications providers and other security agencies to trace and arrest those behind the scam.

Extortion using fake bomb threats is a known tactic employed globally by criminal groups to instill fear and pressure victims into paying money. The South-South region, including Edo State, has experienced similar incidents, reflecting broader security challenges where fear and misinformation are weaponised.

According to regional data from the European Union Agency for Asylum’s July 2024 report, the South-South zone recorded multiple instances of violence against civilians in 2023.